Nature reserve opens rebuilt hide

The new viewing spot offers expansive views of the Lower Pool at RSPB Leighton Moss

The oldest bird watching hide at a nature reserve has been rebuilt to provide "stunning new views" of wildlife and improve accessibility.

The Lower Hide at RSPB Leighton Moss in Carnforth, Lancashire, has been transformed thanks to donations from two of the charity's life members and RSPB groups in Leeds, Liverpool, Macclesfield and York.

The conservation charity said it was a "particularly good spot" for catching glimpses of otters and a wide range of waterbirds such as egrets and ducks.

Jarrod Sneyd, of the RSPB, said: "The new hide will stand for many years to come and provide enjoyment in nature for a whole host of visitors to Leighton Moss."

The new hide features larger windows for even better views of nature

Lower Hide is situated on the edge of the reedbed on the northern edge of the Leighton Moss nature reserve.

The new hide features larger windows to provide more expansive views of the Lower Pool and is a popular spot in spring to watch Marsh Harriers soaring above the reedbed as well as bitterns flying to their nearby nest with food for their chicks.

The RSPB said in spring and summer Ospreys could also be seen fishing in the pool, often retreating to a nearby tree to consume their catch.

'Special location'

There is a a large accessible ramp and veranda at the back to ensure visitors in mobility scooters and those with pushchairs are able to easily access the hide for the first time.

Mr Sneyd, senior site manager at Leighton Moss, described the lower hide as his favourite one, adding: "I was involved in building it in 1990 and I've spent many hours in it from being a young volunteer on the reserve and throughout my career with the RSPB.

"For me, experiencing nature is about immersion, absorbing sights, sounds, colours, smells and now with a more airy, light experience it is so nice to once again enjoy this special location."